Connecting regional patients with vital neurological support

For many people living in regional areas, accessing the right healthcare and support services can be a significant challenge.

This was the reality for Aaron, who was diagnosed with MS in 2007. Facing limited medical resources and growing frustration at the lack of specialist care in his hometown in regional New South Wales, Aaron became the first person to stay at MS Plus’ newly developed Lidcombe Home supported disability apartments in 2025.

What began as a short stay turned into something much more.

Aaron’s experience was so positive that he returned for a second stay – and he’s currently planning a third.

His time at Lidcombe Home showed him that MS doesn’t have to mean living with less.

'There are so many opportunities available to you when you’re staying in a bigger city,' Aaron shared. 'I live in a regional area where there are no neurologists and not many health supports.'

When Aaron was first diagnosed, life changed dramatically.

'I was a naive young man and I endured some really difficult experiences – losing my career as an engineer, my relationships, friendships, my accommodation, my mind (both memory and cognition), and finally my independence.

'I suffered through anxiety, depression, bladder control, bowel difficulties, fatigue, the ability to walk, swallow and converse. Also, the decreased ability of my right arm, right leg.'

For Aaron, having easy access to neuro-specialised physiotherapy and tailored gym equipment during his stay at Lidcombe Home was a game-changer – with a range of supports available just next door at the Lidcombe Wellbeing Centre.

'I was able to see Physiotherapist Dr Phu Hoang, and I knew right away he was drawing on a huge pool of experience.

'I had three sessions in the gym while I was there, which was great. He was very concise and confident in his advice, and I trusted that what he recommended would work for me,' Aaron says.

'Keeping your body fit improves your mental health – I felt more invigorated after every session. I have a physio at home, but the gym equipment is much more limited than at Lidcombe. It’s like comparing a mansion to a tent.'

Beyond healthcare, Lidcombe Home offered Aaron a sense of independence, security and community he hadn’t experienced before.

'Each apartment is fully independent, with an easily accessible kitchen where I could prepare my own meals. I’m in a wheelchair, and the accessible features – like adjustable benches – made a big difference. I didn’t cook this time, but just knowing I could, gave me a feeling of new possibilities and a more positive outlook on independent living.'

One of the most reassuring aspects of Lidcombe Home was the support available around the clock.

'There are staff on call 24/7, which is really comforting. I also had an MS support worker stay with me to help with my daily tasks, providing one-on-one assistance when I needed it.'

Aaron’s respite experience expanded what he believes is possible for his future.

'I came to Lidcombe to get easier access to the services I need, but also for a break. The medical services, the limitless possibilities, and the social interaction are fantastic. Now, I want to stay permanently.

'Some of the most valuable support I was given initially was a peer support contact, which is the chance to connect with someone else living with MS. But now I'm motivated to help and listen to others newly diagnosed. I'm not much of a people person – I'm an introvert – but I believe that helping others as I was helped is a very rewarding path.

'Where I live now, it’s very isolating. At Lidcombe, I know I’ll have the chance to meet, and help, others in the same situation as me. Seeing other people with MS doing awesome things would be so motivating.

'I look forward to all the free information events that MS Plus holds at Lidcombe Home. I’m also eager to listen and share my own lived experiences with fellow individuals as a peer support volunteer.'

Lidcombe Home offers both respite and permanent accommodation for people living with MS and other neurological conditions, providing access to essential services, modern facilities, and a welcoming community.

To learn more about how Lidcombe Home can support you or a loved one, visit msplus.org.au/LidcombeHome, call 1800 042 138 or email home@msplus.org.au

Help more people with MS live with more

Aaron’s story shows what’s possible when people living with MS and other neurological conditions have access to specialised care, expert neurological support and a connected community.

Our Autumn Appeal is raising vital funds to ensure more people like Aaron can access the care, equipment and support they need. Because MS shouldn't mean living with less.

If you would like to help fund the specialised care people with MS need to get more out of life, please consider making a donationopens in new tab to support this important work.